the need for certification

Ergonomists are individuals with a wide range of training in ergonomics/human factors. Law in Canada has not restricted the term Ergonomist such that anyone, regardless of knowledge and competency, can refer to themselves as an “Ergonomist”. In order to protect employers and the public, a voluntary professional certification program is available through the Canadian College for the Certification of Canadian Ergonomists (CCCPE). Certification through the CCCPE provides the designation “CCPE” (Certified Canadian Professional Ergonomist), and has been available since 1989. The Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist (CCPE) designation is the only ergonomics/human factors certification in Canada, which requires applicants to meet a consistent set of standards in education and professional competencies across the full scope of ergonomics and human factors. The Associate Ergonomist (AE) designation is earned by individuals who have met the ergonomics/human factors education requirements to move towards the CCPE designation. The administration of these designations is performed by the CCCPE Board, which has the sole purpose of providing a certification program that ensures a minimum level of knowledge and skills in ergonomics/human factors. Applicants who attain the CCPE designation, or the AE designation, must comply with the CCCPE Code of Ethics.